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The Centre for Politics and Governance (CPG), the political arm of the Renewed Ministers of Christ (RMC) has raised concerns over the alleged marginalisation of Christians in the recently concluded primaries for the local council elections in Lagos State.
Speaking at a press conference held on Friday, June 7, 2025, in Lagos, Bishop Stephen Ogedengbe, the RMC National President, said Christians were largely excluded from the list of party candidates for various political positions across the state.
“We are concerned about the recent primary elections in Lagos, where Christians were grossly marginalised from party candidates across various political parties,” he said.
“I doubt if Christians made up to 10 or 20 percent of the candidates in the 57 local governments. Even for the position of vice chairmen, we did not get up to 40 percent. And yet, we have a sitting Christian governor.”
Bishop Ogedengbe described the situation as unfair and called for balanced representation in the political space. “This development raises questions about inclusiveness and fairness in our democracy,” he added.
He urged all political parties to give equal opportunity to Nigerians, regardless of their religion, adding, “We are only calling for balance and equity which brings justice, and peace.
“Many Christians are not even given the chance to contest, even when they are popular among the people. It seems some people are playing on the intelligence of Christians.”
Ogedengbe, who called for constructive dialogue and urged for peaceful coexistence, cited the rotation of leadership between Muslims and Christians in the state as an example that should be followed at the grassroots level.
“After Bola Tinubu, Fashola, a Muslim, became governor. Then, the Christian leaders appealed for balance, and Ambode was presented.
“Though he did not return for a second term, Sanwo-Olu, also a Christian, took over,” he said. “So, if in the next election a Muslim is presented, we will joyfully vote and support the person.
“The same fairness should happen at the local government level. If we have a two-term chairman of a local government, after you finish your term as a Muslim, it won’t be bad if a Christian comes in and do another one and second term, then another Muslim takes over.”
Despite their concerns, the group joined Muslims in celebrating Eid, as a sign of unity and religious harmony.
“We joined our Muslim brothers in their celebration today. We believe in harmony. That is why there is no religious war in the South, and we want to maintain that peace,” the cleric said.
“That is why we are encouraging our Christian brethren not to resign from their political parties. Stay and engage,” he added.
Bishop Ogedengbe also commended President Bola Tinubu for his commitment to democracy and his recent approval of the establishment of Forest Guards to protect Nigeria’s forests from terrorist groups.
He encouraged Christians to take advantage of the opportunity.
He said CPG’s assessment of the situation is aimed at promoting dialogue, accountability, and inclusive governance.
Other leaders present at the event included Bishop Theophilus Taiwo Ajose, Director General; Bishop Saint Robinson, RMC Board Member; Dr David Oladipo, Lagos State Coordinator (CPG); Bishop Matthew Daniel of Elohim Faith Assembly, among others.